Top level chess is a beast that looks like an entirely different game being played. However it doesn't look like fun to play, but then again I can't speak from any experience, it may be enjoyable.
To answer your bullet points:
1. I personally hate wild games. I prefer sterile clean calculated games. I therefore prefer to stay away from games where nothing is being defended and pieces flying everywhere. The odd tactic here and there is great.
2. If I can help it I will never play an unsound line. That feels like a recipe for disaster if I'm not using every advantage I've got then I don't think I'm playing chess to a level I enjoy.
3. I think blitz and bullet are enjoyable to watch. It seems more fun to play too. Not to mention the ability to play fast and accurate is inspiring.
I mean, a lot of “good players” historically have managed to utilise breathtaking attacks. And the time control matters, too…
I would rather watch some wild 2700-rated chaos with blunders, sacrifices, and insane tactics every other move. The way Tal, Kasparov or Judit Polgar played.
When the world's best player has a boring style (like today), there is always a narrative that top level chess is boring. But actually it isn't. All we need is a new Kasparov.
The fact that there is a variety of time controls as well as different playing styles is great and every viewer (if I understood correctly, this thread about watching chess, not playing it at the moment) may find their favourite time control and style
Wild games with insane misses,blunders, (some) IQ, THATS more like it
We all respect solid, mistake-free, positional play. Magnus grinding out a 60-move win with a knight and a dream is legendary stuff.
BUT… be honest—do you enjoy watching that as much as some wild 1400-rated chaos with blunders, sacrifices, and insane tactics every other move?
Do you think top-level chess is too “sterile” now with engines and prep? Is there room anymore for wild creativity, or is that just nostalgic nonsense?
✅ What do YOU enjoy more—clean games or wild fights?
✅ Have you ever intentionally played an unsound line just because it’s fun?
✅ Do you think bullet/blitz are actually better formats for entertainment?
Drop your hottest takes. I want to hear from everyone—from bullet demons to classical purists. Let's settle this once and for all.